The Ultimate Guide to Expats Moving to Saudi Arabia: Visa, Iqama, and Work Permits Explained
Saudi Arabia has become one of the fastest-growing destinations for expatriates in the Middle East. With Vision 2030 reforms reshaping the economy, expanding private sector opportunities, and improving lifestyle options, thousands of professionals relocate to the Kingdom each year. However, navigating visas, iqama procedures, and work permits can feel complex without clear guidance.
This detailed guide explains everything expats need to know before and after moving to Saudi Arabia—from entry visas to residency rules, employment regulations, family sponsorship, and compliance requirements.
Why Saudi Arabia Attracts Expats
Saudi Arabia hosts over 13 million expatriates, making up roughly 40% of the total population. Key reasons professionals relocate include:
Tax-free income
Competitive salary packages
Rapidly expanding industries (construction, healthcare, IT, oil & gas, finance, tourism)
Large-scale mega projects such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya
Growing lifestyle and entertainment sectors
The Kingdom has introduced significant labor reforms, digitalized government services, and streamlined residency processes, making relocation smoother than in the past.
Overview of Saudi Visa Types
Before moving, it is crucial to understand the different visa categories available. Each serves a distinct purpose.
1. Employment Visa
The employment visa is the most common route for expats relocating for work. It is issued after a Saudi employer sponsors the applicant.
Key features:
Requires a confirmed job offer
Sponsored by a Saudi company
Valid for entry into the Kingdom
Converted into an iqama after arrival
The employer handles most of the application process through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Business Visit Visa
This visa is suitable for short-term business activities such as meetings, negotiations, or project discussions.
Important points:
Does not permit employment
Typically valid for 30 to 90 days
Extendable in some cases
3. Family Visit Visa
Residents can sponsor immediate family members for short visits.
Single-entry or multiple-entry options
Valid for up to 90 days per visit
Requires iqama holder sponsorship
4. Premium Residency (Saudi Green Card)
Launched in 2019, the Premium Residency program allows foreigners to live, work, and own property without a sponsor.
Two main options:
Limited duration residency (renewable annually)
Permanent residency (one-time fee)
This program appeals to investors and high-net-worth individuals.
5. Tourist Visa
Available to citizens of many countries, including eVisa-eligible nationals.
Valid for tourism and leisure
Not permitted for employment
Multiple-entry option available
The Employment Visa Process Explained
Securing an employment visa involves several coordinated steps between the employer and the applicant.
Step 1: Work Authorization Approval
The employer obtains a block visa quota from Saudi authorities. This quota allows the company to hire foreign workers.
Step 2: Visa Authorization Number
Once approved, the employer receives a visa authorization number, which is sent to the employee.
Step 3: Document Submission
The applicant submits required documents to the Saudi embassy or visa processing center in their home country. These typically include:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Signed employment contract
Academic certificates (attested)
Medical test results
Police clearance certificate
Passport-sized photographs
Step 4: Medical Examination
A government-approved medical test ensures the applicant meets health requirements.
Step 5: Visa Stamping
After approval, the visa is stamped on the passport, allowing entry into Saudi Arabia.
What Is an Iqama?
The iqama is the official residence permit issued to expatriates after arrival. It is mandatory for legal residency and employment in Saudi Arabia.
Without an iqama, an expat cannot:
Open a bank account
Obtain a SIM card
Sign rental contracts
Access government services
Sponsor family members
The iqama typically contains:
Personal information
Employer details
Profession
Expiry date
Unique identification number
Iqama Issuance Process
After entering Saudi Arabia on an employment visa, the employer initiates the iqama process.
Required Steps:
Medical test in Saudi Arabia
Biometric fingerprint registration
Health insurance enrollment
Payment of iqama issuance fees
Registration in the Absher system
The iqama is generally issued within 1 to 3 weeks after arrival.
Iqama Renewal and Validity
Iqamas are usually valid for one year, though shorter durations are possible.
Renewal requirements include:
Valid health insurance
Payment of government fees
Employer compliance with Saudization policies
Late renewal may result in fines:
SAR 500 for first delay
SAR 1,000 for second delay
Deportation risk for repeated violations
Work Permit (Rukhsa Amal) Explained
A work permit is separate from the iqama but equally important. Issued by the Ministry of Human Resources, it authorizes employment.
The employer is responsible for:
Paying work permit fees
Ensuring profession matches job role
Updating employment status
Work permit fees vary depending on company Saudization status. Companies with lower Saudi employee ratios may pay higher levies for foreign workers.
Sponsorship System (Kafala) and Labor Reforms
Saudi Arabia traditionally operated under the Kafala system, where an employer controlled the employee’s residency and mobility.
Recent reforms have changed key aspects:
Employees can transfer jobs after contract completion without employer consent
Exit and re-entry visas can be requested online
Final exit visas are easier to process
These changes improve worker mobility and align Saudi labor laws with international standards.
Exit, Re-Entry, and Final Exit Visas
Expats must obtain proper authorization before leaving the Kingdom.
Exit/Re-Entry Visa
Allows temporary travel outside Saudi Arabia.
Single or multiple entry options
Valid for specified duration
Requires iqama validity
Final Exit Visa
Issued when permanently leaving Saudi Arabia.
Requirements:
No pending legal cases
No unpaid traffic fines
Valid iqama
Employer approval (if contract active)
Failure to use a final exit visa within its validity can result in penalties.
Family Sponsorship Rules
Expatriates earning above a certain salary threshold may sponsor their immediate family.
Requirements include:
Valid iqama
Suitable profession
Attested marriage certificate
Children’s birth certificates
Adequate housing
Dependent fees apply annually per family member.
Cost Breakdown for Expats
Understanding costs helps in financial planning.
Typical expenses include:
Employment visa processing (usually employer-paid)
Iqama issuance fee
Work permit fee
Dependent levy (per family member annually)
Health insurance
Exit/re-entry visa fees
Dependent levy rates have fluctuated over recent years, so expats should verify current charges before budgeting.
Saudization (Nitaqat) and Its Impact on Expats
The Nitaqat system classifies companies based on the percentage of Saudi nationals employed.
Categories include:
Platinum
Green
Yellow
Red
Companies in higher categories enjoy:
Easier visa processing
Lower foreign worker fees
Greater flexibility in recruitment
For expats, working for a compliant company ensures smoother renewals and job mobility.
Changing Jobs in Saudi Arabia
Under updated labor reforms, expats can change employers:
After contract completion
If the employer violates contract terms
If salary is unpaid for 3 consecutive months
The process is handled digitally through government platforms, reducing paperwork and delays.
Common Legal Compliance Tips
To avoid penalties, expats should:
Keep iqama valid at all times
Carry iqama copy when outside
Pay traffic fines promptly
Maintain valid health insurance
Update address and contact details in Absher
Non-compliance may result in fines, detention, or deportation.
Opening Bank Accounts and Financial Setup
After receiving the iqama, expats can open bank accounts. Required documents typically include:
Iqama
Employer letter
National address registration
Saudi banks offer online banking, international transfers, and Shariah-compliant products.
Healthcare and Insurance Requirements
Health insurance is mandatory for all expats and their dependents. Employers must provide coverage for employees.
Insurance coverage generally includes:
Hospitalization
Emergency services
Outpatient care
Prescription medication
Healthcare facilities in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are modern and well-equipped.
Cultural and Legal Considerations
Saudi Arabia has unique cultural and legal norms. Expats should understand:
Respect for local customs and Islamic practices
Modest dress guidelines
Public behavior regulations
Alcohol prohibition laws
Recent reforms have relaxed some restrictions, but cultural awareness remains important.
Long-Term Residency and Investment Opportunities
For professionals planning long-term stays, options include:
Premium Residency
Property ownership (in designated areas)
Business investment licenses
Entrepreneur visas
The government actively encourages foreign investment in sectors like tourism, technology, renewable energy, and entertainment.
Digital Government Platforms Every Expat Should Know
Saudi Arabia has digitized many services. Important platforms include:
Absher (personal services)
Qiwa (labor services)
Muqeem (residency services)
Mudad (wage protection system)
These systems simplify visa renewals, job transfers, and travel permissions.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Saudi Arabia offers substantial professional and financial benefits, but understanding visa categories, iqama requirements, and work permit regulations is essential for a smooth transition. With ongoing reforms and digital transformation, the process has become more transparent and efficient than ever before.
Whether relocating for career growth, business expansion, or long-term residency, proper planning ensures compliance and peace of mind. Staying informed through reliable resources like saudi life guide can help expats navigate every stage of their journey confidently and legally within the Kingdom.
By understanding each step—from employment visa approval to iqama renewal and family sponsorship—expatriates can focus on building a successful and rewarding life in Saudi Arabia.
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